Channel Manager

Topic Contents

Signs of Substance Use

Topic Overview

The following are some obvious signs that a person may be
smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, or using other substances. This is not a
complete list of signs to look for. If you suspect a particular drug or drugs,
get more information on signs of use for those substances. For more information, see Teen Alcohol and Drug Abuse.

Cigarettes

A distinctive smell on the breath and
clothing

Cigarettes and lighter in his or her
possession

Cigarette butts outside a bedroom window or in other
odd places around the home

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages missing from the home
storage cabinet

Alcohol or mouthwash (used to cover up alcohol)
breath or
hangover symptoms (nausea, vomiting, or headache), if
recently used

Marijuana

Sweet smell on clothing or bloodshot eyes, if
recently used, and frequent use of eyedrops to reduce the
redness

Drug paraphernalia (pipes) in his or her
possession

Carelessness in grooming, increased fatigue, and
changes in eating and sleeping patterns, if using regularly

Inhalants

Chemical breath, red eyes, or stains on
clothing or face, if recently used

Soaked rags or empty aerosol
containers in the trash

Club drugs

Skin rash similar to acne

Small bottles with liquid or
powder in his or her possession

Stimulants

Persistent runny nose and nosebleeds, injection
marks on arms or other parts of the body, or long periods of time without
sleep

Possession of drug paraphernalia, such as syringes, spoons
with smoke stains, small pieces of glass, and razor blades

LSD or other hallucinogens

Trance-like appearance with dilated pupils, if
recently used

Small squares of blotter paper (sometimes stamped
with cartoon characters) or other forms of the drug in his or her
possession

Heroin

Very small pupils and a drowsy or relaxed look,
if recently used

Possession of injecting supplies, called an outfit
or rig, that may consist of a spoon or bottle cap, syringe, tourniquet, cotton,
and matches

Anabolic steroids

An unpleasant breath odor

Mood
changes, including increased aggression

Changes in physical
appearance that can't be attributed to expected patterns of growth and
development

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.